Store Water

Did you know that there is a 63% chance of a major earthquake occurring in the Bay Area within the next 30 years? After such an event, your water supply might be unavailable for up to 72 hours or more.

With an emergency water supply, you can be sure that you and your family will have drinking water even in the event of a disaster. It is recommended to store enough water to last for 3-5 days.

One Gallon Per Person Per Day

Each family member needs one gallon of water per day. Three gallons per person is enough drinking water for three days, and it is also sufficient for limited cooking and personal hygiene use. Don't forget your pets! They also need up to one gallon of water per day.

Storing Tap Water

Tap water can be stored without any treatment. Use food-grade plastic containers, such as clean 2-liter soft drink bottles. Heavy-duty water containers are available at your local sporting goods store. Store tap water in a cool, dark place, such as under a sink or in the basement. Label the containers with the date of storage and replace every six months. When you drink your stored tap water, you do not have to treat it.

Storing Bottled Water

It is not recommended to store bottled water after the seal has been broken. Store bottled water in a cool, dark place and in the original sealed containers. If the bottles aren’t marked with an expiration date, label them with the date of purchase and replace every six months. When you drink your stored bottled water, you do not have to treat it.

Water Conservation Tip

Your emergency water supply, whether it is tap or bottled, has to be replaced every six months. But instead of throwing the old water away, you can use it to irrigate your plants.